The new coach has been embroiled in controversy since his first day on campus. Then Rich Rodriguez swung and missed on top recruit Terrelle Pryor, who was supposed to be the star quarterback who would lead the Wolverines' new spread option.

On top of all that, one of the few returning starters, offensive lineman Justin Boren, defected for Ohio State, citing the "erosion of family values" within the program, a direct shot at Rodriguez and his new staff. Right now, football season can't arrive fast enough.

When it does, it will likely be a growing season for the Wolverines, who are undergoing a major overhaul as Rodriguez brings widespread change to a program rich in tradition. Gone are the pocket passers like Chad Henne and Ryan Mallet. In, eventually, will be mobile quarterbacks who can get out and move. For now, Steven Threet gets the first crack at running Rodriguez's offense.

"He's a student. I think he's taking it all in and he's paying attention," offensive coordinator Calvin Magee said. "He's understanding the offense. Like everybody else, it's all new to him, so he's making his mistakes, but I think he's got some leadership qualities that are going to help us."

And Threet better help, and help a lot. The Wolverines return just two starters on offense and four on defense. Michigan shouldn't have any trouble qualifying for a bowl game, but five losses next season certainly seem possible.

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